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INTENSIVE RESIDENTIAL LIFE EXPERIENCES (IRLE) EDUCATION PROGRAM

Most of our students are the only child in their school or school district with a visual impairment. They need opportunities to meet other children and adults like themselves.  Our Intensive Residential Life Experiences (IRLE) program gives them annual opportunities to spend time with their peers, individuals who understand their unique aspects of visual impairments. The IRLE education program provides the support, tools and materials necessary for Vermont's blind and visually impaired children to succeed and to reach their full potential. The IRLE programs for teens and younger children are based on goals from the Expanded Core Curriculum. 

These goals are realized through a comprehensive period, up to a week, of intensive hands-on activities, workshops, and field trips. The students learn to develop and hone sound reasoning skills, how to incorporate problem solving skills in everyday living situations, and ultimately gain a better understanding of their visual impairment.

The students learn specific training and life skills that they can use everyday after they leave the program. We expect that IRLE education helps exercise some of their life skills and social skills, in turn resulting in increased confidence and self-esteem.